Jim Snyder

I just used this method loading for the first time on my new used Thule Dock Glides on my Imprezza (who names these things?) Easiest load I've ever done with just a bath towel on the top of the hatch.

This was a spectacular paddle! This file will open our track in Google Earth: track-52919-102412am.kml I tasked myself with finding the history of "Norman's Woe" Here's what I found: There is no clear record of how Norman’s Woe got its name. Tradition tells that a man named Norman was shipwrecked and lost there, and it is for him the rock and reef are named. John J. Babson’s history of Gloucester notes that Goodman Norman and his son settled the headland near the islet. You can read more here: http://myweb.northshore.edu/users/ccarlsen/poetry/gloucester/normanswoehistory.htm Incidentally I tried to observe Joe for signs of a note taking system to determine how he is producing such a detailed timeline for these paddles. It remains a mystery. track-52919-102412am.kml

Is anyone else doing this?

See you there...

I'm a maybe this week, watching weather and conditions...

A brief google search reveals that it's apparently common knowledge that ozone from sources like fluorescent lights and electric motors causes latex deterioration. https://www.radicalrc.com/Trexler Latex Care & Treatment.pdf I have been storing my drysuit in the basement with compact fluorescent bulbs and multiple large power tools. I have ordered the SiTech neck ring and a silicone neck gasket to try. I will be reporting on my results in a new thread.

What a wonderfull section of coastline!

This is the system I'm thinking of trying. I wish I knew of a kayaker who has tried it: https://www.diverightinscuba.com/quick-neck.html?gclid=Cj0KCQjww47nBRDlARIsAEJ34bnADO4GVqqz_-CQn3mNTr1dIvTL4Toefq4roybtPn24UK5LL6E4x7saAoaOEALw_wcB

I do that but I have a head like a basketball. Has anyone tried silicone gaskets? They seem to be popular with divers and apparently are quick to replace once you've glued the installation system in.

I bought it for that purpose and carry it in my repair kit, though I haven't had to use it yet. If I keep paddling with Bob Levine I expect I'll get a chance to try it out sooner or later. They claim it will seal even under water. When I bought it it was on the shelf at Home Depot but it looks like now you might need to order it. We'll see how long my taped neck gasket holds up, that should be a good indication. I was amazed I could get it on and off right after taping.

I've never had trouble getting it on, it's coming off I have trouble with. Maybe it's my technique. As an aside, the hair thing isn't much of a problem for Joe.

I was hoping to visit The Maidens but this will be our last chance to use West Beach for a while and maybe this time we'll get past the Rams...

Thanks Joe. I just taped mine up with Versa Tape and put it on and off. Might work for a while. I have a backup semi dry suit too. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Intertape-Polymer-Group-3-in-x-5-yds-VersaTape-Underwater-Tape-99688/206300616

This is timely for me as I just tore my second neck in the space of about a year. I just examined it and it appears to be like new except for the straight line tear down the front. I apply 303 monthly to the outside of the gasket but have not yet tried the Joe protocol. I think part of my problem may be anatomical. I have a relatively scrawny neck but an enormous head. It's fairly easy to get my Kokatat size L on but always a struggle to get it off. NRS sells a gasket in XL but I don't know if it would seal my neck well. I'm going to call Kokatat and NRS shortly but would be pleased to hear any input here. Need to order something soon, going to try some tape until I can get it done.

A quiet lunch on Brown...

I'll be there.

Great report, Joe. I especially liked our lunch spot and want to add these pictures of Misery Gut and the magnificent view from the south bluff of Little Misery.

I'm in!

I would be happy to host a Merrimack River paddle in NH if there's interest. Once the river goes down, it's a nice paddle up here with rope swings, gorges, and beaches.

Dan, great idea! I think it would be great to have an on water workshop.

I'd like to join. Can you post the launch point and expected route?

I'm another mostly retired member in New Hampshire. My closest launch locations include Odiorne and Hampton Harbor. I'm often available on short notice when conditions are favorable. Welcome to the club! !

Paul, I'm planning on an Odiorne launch Friday also but was planning on closer to noon.

I tried this a few times when I first started carrying a radio. It worked less than half the time, probably because I was trying from at or near the launch location, not farther offshore, or, because I had the wrong channel. When it works it just plays back your own voice to you. I've been thinking I know I carry the radio with DSC but in an emergency might be too stressed to remember proper procedures. I think an organized paddle with the side goal of working on communication procedures would be a great idea.

I have a '98 that I love. The only downside is that it's the heaviest boat I've ever put on my shoulder. I've lifted other ones that age that weren't nearly so heavy. I saw this one on CL recently: https://newhaven.craigslist.org/boa/d/guilford-fiberglass-ndk-explorer-sea/6841414797.html